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A billboard celebrating Pakistan's 72nd independence day is see in Tehran. — Photo provided by author

Billboards and banners felicitating Pakistan on its 72nd independence day have been put up across Tehran, the capital of Iran, Radio Pakistan reported on Tuesday.

The text in Persian on the billboards, photos of which are available with Dawn.com, congratulates Pakistan on its independence anniversary and depict historical landmarks from the four provinces. The hoardings have been put on highways and bridges across the Iranian city.

According to Radio Pakistan, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has also felicitated the Pakistani nation on the occasion.

A billboard on a flyover in Tehran facilitates Pakistan on its independence day. — Photo provided by author

An ad celebrating Pakistan's independence day is put up on an overhead bridge in Tehran. — Photo provided by author

Pakistan's relations with Iran appear to be on an upward trajectory. In a call to prime minister-in-waiting Imran Khan, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani had said that his country's relations with Pakistan are not only that of a neighbour but go deeper as the two countries share the same religious and cultural values.

"We want to develop special trade relations with Iran," Khan had told Rouhani in response, adding that Pakistan wishes to see further improvement in relations on the diplomatic level.

The Iranian president had also extended an invitation to Khan to visit Iran after taking the oath, which was accepted by the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chief.

Last month, the two countries pledged to further deepen their military cooperation.

US conveys wishes to Pakistan

The United States government has extended best wishes to the Pakistani people on the independence day, besides expressing the desire to work with the Government of Pakistan to advance the shared goals.

"On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to extend my best wishes to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their independence day," a statement released by the US embassy in Islamabad quoted US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as saying.

He said the relationship between the US and Pakistan has rested on the strong foundation of close ties between their peoples for more than seven decades.

"In the years ahead, we hope to further strengthen these bonds, as we continue to look for opportunities to work with the people and Government of Pakistan to advance our shared goals of security, stability, and prosperity in South Asia," Pompeo added.

British, German envoys issue statements

The British and German ambassadors to Pakistan released video statements on Twitter to felicitate Pakistan on its independence anniversary.

"I want to see Pakistan happy, strong and developed in the future," said German envoy Martin Kobler speaking in Urdu.

Thomas Drew, the British high commissioner to Pakistan, said he has been coming to Pakistan for past 12 years and has lived here for five years.

"I am certain Pakistan's future is very bright and the British government and people will fully support you in making it even better," said Drew, also speaking in Urdu.

Comments (100) Closed

Persia is the pride of our heart, land of sacred Imams and land of Cyrus the Great.

Love you Iran.

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Human

Aug 14, 2018 02:23pm

Great. Kashmir is Pakistan as shown by Iran. Happy Independence Day people!

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Zahid Ali

Aug 14, 2018 02:24pm

Long live Pakistan - Iran friendship.

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Hadi

Aug 14, 2018 02:28pm

That is wonderful to see.

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Zoraiz Zafar

Aug 14, 2018 02:29pm

Excellent developments! Finally we are ridding our foreign policy of American and Saudi influence.

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Hasnain Haque

Aug 14, 2018 02:31pm

Beginning of a new friendship for mutual friendship. Great start.

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Hasan

Aug 14, 2018 02:32pm

What a nice gesture, this is how to win hearts lots of love for our Iranian brothers and sisters

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Dr. Salaria, Aamir Ahmad

Aug 14, 2018 02:35pm

No doubt, Islamic Republic of Iran is a top trusted friend and brotherly ally of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan since day one. Just for the sake of records and history books, it was Iran who in 1948, presented and recommend the name of it's newly created Eastern border neighbor before the United Nations as a new member. Rest as they say is history.

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Zaman Khalid

Aug 14, 2018 02:35pm

Good gesture.

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FIDA SAYANI

Aug 14, 2018 02:35pm

Pakistan should be closer to Iran.Time is ripe for an alliance between Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Syria and Turkey to safeguard the Muslim land from the Zionist and the crusaders. Also the Alliance shoud bring benefit to the people living in these countries mentioned and the neighboring countries.

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Nomi Goraya

Aug 14, 2018 02:37pm

Thanks Iran. I really wish that Pakistan and Iran work together closely as both of the countries have one of the best educated youth in the region and both are confronted with more and less same nature of problems.

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PAKMAN

Aug 14, 2018 02:40pm

Great to see Iran and Pakistan coming together. I sincerely hope Iran and Saudia make peace, and not play into the hands of our enemies.

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A.Durrani

Aug 14, 2018 02:42pm

That's very commendable. I think we should reciprocate in the same spirit.

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Asif Kashmiri

Aug 14, 2018 02:44pm

Bravo Pakistan and THANK YOU Iran!!!

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Dahar

Aug 14, 2018 02:48pm

Very first time, this gesture may improve good ties between two countries. Thanks Iran..

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Ghayur Baig

Aug 14, 2018 02:53pm

This how world takes you when you have honest leadership in the country

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Tariq Amir

Aug 14, 2018 02:56pm

Thank you Iran.

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Winter

Aug 14, 2018 03:01pm

Great gesture, should be reciprocated by the government and the people with gratitude and better relations.

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SHAHID SATTAR

Aug 14, 2018 03:03pm

Thank you for your good wishes. May we brother countries prosper together against the tyrant regimes of the world and stand united in times of each others' needs. Ameen.

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Syed Zafar Kazmi U.S.A

Aug 14, 2018 03:04pm

Definitely not Iran, it’s Saudia only “playing into the hands of our enemies”, rather openly collaborating with the enemy.

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dr d ali uk

Aug 14, 2018 03:04pm

Thank you ambassador, much obliged. can you open up trade agreements with us now

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SHAHID SATTAR

Aug 14, 2018 03:05pm

@Dahar History tells us that Iran was the very first country to recognize Pakistan as an independent state in the year 1947.

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abbas

Aug 14, 2018 03:11pm

Pak Iran Zindabad

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Asim

Aug 14, 2018 03:12pm

Good to see that.

Thank you Iran!

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A lay man

Aug 14, 2018 03:13pm

Its great to see that with new government coming in, not only there is optimism in Pakistan but global community is also extending a new hand to Pakistan. It is time for us to come our of our cornered status in the last few years and obtain a better place in global community.

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Raja Farhat Abbas

Aug 14, 2018 03:22pm

Thank you my Iranian brothers and sisters from the bottom of my heart..!

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Shahid

Aug 14, 2018 03:32pm

Is it time to revive old concept of RCD, this time for real?

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Naqvi

Aug 14, 2018 03:38pm

Good gesture should be reciprocated by linking up of Pak Iran gas pipeline.

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Perplexed

Aug 14, 2018 03:47pm

High time to revive the RCD!!

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Perplexed

Aug 14, 2018 03:48pm

RCD among Pakistan, Iran and Turkey.

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Junaid

Aug 14, 2018 03:52pm

30% of Pakistanis share ethnicity with Iran and culturally whole Pakistan is similar to Iran

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Junaid

Aug 14, 2018 03:53pm

Thank you Iran for this gesture

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Anti-Corruption_Pakistani

Aug 14, 2018 03:53pm

A friendly gesture from our neighbour Iran showing a willingness to be close friends. I am sure, this will strengthen our brotherly relationship for the sovereignty and prosperity of our respective countries.

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Jalbani Baloch

Aug 14, 2018 03:55pm

Both the Governments of Iran and Pakistan should cement their bilateral ties and boost cooperation in commercial, trade and economic development and work jointly for bringing peace and stability in the region.

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Junaid

Aug 14, 2018 03:56pm

Im from Azad Kashmir and I think culturally, ethnically and linguistically whole Kashmir belongs to Pakistan I hope IOK will also be liberated from brutality of North Indian brahmin hindu government and army

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peace

Aug 14, 2018 03:57pm

Great news. I hope Muslims can unite and stop fighting each other which only advances the agenda of our common enemies and blood of our nations is spilled without any reason all over without discrimination. Children, women and elderly suffer alike. Millions have been made homeless and refugees. Let sanity prevail. Live and let live. Thank you Iran for your wishes.

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Junaid

Aug 14, 2018 03:58pm

Now I know why our neighbors are scared of imran khan the guy is not yet PM and is already showing his effects just wait and watch

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reality bites

Aug 14, 2018 04:14pm

Thank you Iran for your wishes. We will inshallah foster our relations to a new heights.

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Syed

Aug 14, 2018 04:28pm

This year independence day is very special for a simple reason, we got independence from corrupt leaders for the first time. A ray of hope running through the people of Pakistan. With such high expectations, don't let your nation down IK. The nation is counting on your promises and if you fail to deliver than the nation has no hope.

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Iftikhar Husain

Aug 14, 2018 04:40pm

Great news coming from the world good luck to IK in putting right the country.

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Reader

Aug 14, 2018 04:44pm

Kashmir is shown as part of Pakistan... but only on paper, reality is different.

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Insaafian

Aug 14, 2018 04:54pm

where are Indians??

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Sami Qureshi

Aug 14, 2018 04:56pm

Change in relations with the neighbouring countries is being on the card with the opening of the 15th Pakistan National Assembly.

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Sanity

Aug 14, 2018 04:57pm

Thank you Iran. We love you too.

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auginpk

Aug 14, 2018 05:19pm

Happy Independence Day.

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Zak

Aug 14, 2018 05:24pm

@Gilgiti Power Iran always supported UN Kashmir Plebiscite and are strong believers of Kashmir should be with Pakistan. Ahmed Nidajad openly use to say so in interviews.

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Zak

Aug 14, 2018 05:27pm

@FIDA SAYANI Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan and Turkey. That's a good strong block in all spheres. All are culturally, religiously , ethnically and historically, connected.

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Ashfaq

Aug 14, 2018 05:32pm

How nice it would be if Pakistan enters into an era where instead of purchasing fuel from farther countiries, it takes advantages of its nearest neighbour, to save money, increase trade ties and develop brotherly relation to new horizons

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Zak

Aug 14, 2018 05:33pm

Not yet PM and respect flowing in from around the world.They are just happy to deal with an honest and genuinely sincere leader.

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S.G. Haider

Aug 14, 2018 05:47pm

Thank you respected Ambassador of Federal Republic of Germany Mr. Martin Kobler for expressing your congratulations and good wishes in Urdu. You spoke perfectly. Thank you Sir. You won my heart. "Danke Schön und alles Gute"!!

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Asgher

Aug 14, 2018 05:48pm

"Kashmir included in the map"

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Syed - Canada

Aug 14, 2018 05:51pm

Great gesture, we should take care of this gesture and cooperate to build eco block with Turkey & China

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Changez Khan

Aug 14, 2018 06:14pm

Thanks Iran.

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Imran

Aug 14, 2018 06:21pm

Thank you Iran. Long live Pakistan Iran friendship.

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Gypsy

Aug 14, 2018 06:34pm

Great gesture by Iran
We need to reciprocate, and try to build up a regional partnership so no one is bullied by USA.

A true friend indeed. Bravo Iran and Iranian people. A great big thank you for this brotherly jesture.

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anonymouseee

Aug 14, 2018 07:55pm

We should note all these good gestures by other countries as they define who our real friends are, and try to maintain best relations with them.

Thank you Iran and the rest for the wishes.

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Anas Iqbal

Aug 14, 2018 08:13pm

Pakistan and Iran have a lot to celebrate if they connect with each other like this. This will be so so good for our region.

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Talat

Aug 14, 2018 08:21pm

Pakistan needs to develop strong relations with Afghanistan, Iran, China, Russia, Turkey in the face of American bullying. Pakistan also needs to extend a hand of friendship to India to improve relations, however we all know this is unlikely to improve as Kashmir is the major issue which India will not discuss.

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Shah

Aug 14, 2018 08:27pm

Pakistan’s security demand a strong relation with Iran.

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Zeeshan

Aug 14, 2018 09:12pm

Khan keeps winning!! Pakistan and PM Khan Zindabad!

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Siraj Latif

Aug 14, 2018 09:24pm

A great show.really thankful to u Iran.

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Farid

Aug 14, 2018 09:27pm

Only unity in this part of the world can save these countries. I can smell something positive.

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Only turth

Aug 14, 2018 09:44pm

Thank you brother and Sisters of Iran.

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Abdullah

Aug 14, 2018 09:47pm

We love Iran, but bitter reality is whenever they feel pressure or threatened by western, they become amicable and polite towards Pakistan but when they're in a comfortable zone or thought they're dominating in the region they exhibit aggressive and hostile attitude towards Pakistan.

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Santosh Kumar

Aug 14, 2018 09:50pm

@Gilgiti Power just see carefully . Only Pakistan side Kasmir...

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Baba

Aug 14, 2018 10:03pm

Now that Iran has included Kashmir in Pakistan map you will certainly get Kashmir -'xmsy be in your dreams

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Ghaznavi

Aug 14, 2018 10:05pm

World already changing its attitude with the honest mighty khan at the helm. PAKISTAN ZINDABAD

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Ali

Aug 14, 2018 10:13pm

Pakistan and Iran are two brotherly countries sharing common border, religion, culture and history. We thank the people of Iran for the billboards celebrating Pakistan's Independence Day. Pakistan and Iran zindabad.

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smazr

Aug 14, 2018 10:39pm

Thank You brothers! Pakistan Iran friendship zindabad.

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LUVPAK71

Aug 14, 2018 10:57pm

Proud to be Pakistani!!

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Zohaib

Aug 14, 2018 11:28pm

Long live Pak-Iran!!!!!

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A

Aug 14, 2018 11:32pm

What brought that about ? They have never done it in 70 years !

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Sanity

Aug 15, 2018 01:39am

Lovely to see our nation and country being appreciated by all. It's important that we move forward and prove to all our well wishers that we are the best in the world to be with. Our foreign relationship policy needs to boosted to ensure economic growth and stability.
The political capital is the essence for profitable trade relations.
Let's work in such a way that next 14 August we can proudly recount one year achievements.
Poverty eleviation, water shortage eradication, upgrading education system, strong institutions, profitable state industries, youth career planning and law abiding social fiber are few of the elements which we can work on as a nation.
Pakistan zindabad...

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Habib Zuberi

Aug 15, 2018 02:08am

It is great to know that Iran, which stood with Pakistan in the past as well, continues well for the Country. It is now for Pakistan to do all can be done to help improve relations between S.Arabia, Iran and Turkey. Never forget that for all practical purpoese Afghanistan shoule be considered a brotherly country and see if peace can be resotred there. Goor relations among these countries will help the entire Muslim World. Hopefully this will lead to better relation with other countries as well.

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San

Aug 15, 2018 02:42am

Thanks IRAN.

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Sachin

Aug 15, 2018 03:06am

only time will tell

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MAkram

Aug 15, 2018 03:11am

Long Live Pakistan Iran Zindabad. Iran love Pakistan. Iran first country recognize Pakistan.

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Rizz

Aug 15, 2018 03:46am

Great to see this from our neighbour...
Now we need to respect their events as well.
Pay respect earn respect!

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Rafeeq jokhio

Aug 15, 2018 06:02am

Thankyou contries.

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Aftab

Aug 15, 2018 07:20am

Thanks for the gesture.But Saudi will still be our best friend

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salman

Aug 15, 2018 08:51am

good gesture.

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abuzar

Aug 15, 2018 11:44am

@A whats the problem if they did it

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Afzal

Aug 15, 2018 12:09pm

The neighbouring countries to Pakistan should get together and revive the RCD programme and help each other for humanitarian causes and in times of joy as well.

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Uzair

Aug 15, 2018 01:53pm

A nice gesture. Hope they along with Saudi Arabia would cooperate with us in resolving their dispute rather than making us choose sides.

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harris

Aug 15, 2018 04:11pm

Nice to see Kashmir as part of Pakistan in the maps depicted on the billboards !!!

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Guest

Aug 15, 2018 05:28pm

Iran rejects India and chooses Pakistan.

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fawad bhai

Aug 15, 2018 10:41pm

Imran Khan can become the new face of these Asian nations uniting them all.
Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, China and maybe even Russia.

Saudia has sold its soul to USA and India is not going to be our friend. Other than these 2, IK should be able to unite the rest.

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Vivian Baldev Samuel

Aug 15, 2018 10:58pm

The RCD highway, Pakistan, Iran, and Turkey is the road for prosperity and growth in the region. Let's revive it!